Is Sept 24 a Holiday in Barcelona?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, Spain, it’s important to know the local holidays and cultural events that may affect your travel plans. One date that often comes up in this context is September 24th. So, is September 24th a holiday in Barcelona?

The answer is yes and no – it depends on how you define “holiday.” September 24th is not an official national or regional holiday in Spain, which means that businesses, banks, and government offices will be open as usual. However, there are some local festivities that take place on this date every year.

September 24th is the feast day of La Mercè, the patron saint of Barcelona. This event is celebrated with a variety of cultural activities, such as concerts, parades, fireworks displays, and street performances. Many of these events take place in public spaces throughout the city center and are free to attend.

One of the most popular traditions associated with La Mercè is the correfoc (fire run), which involves groups of people dressed as demons running through the streets with fireworks and sparklers. Participants dance to traditional Catalan music while spectators watch from a safe distance.

Another highlight of La Mercè is the castells (human towers), which involve groups of people standing on each other’s shoulders to create impressive pyramids up to ten levels high. These performances require skill and coordination from all involved and are truly a sight to behold.

Overall, while September 24th may not be an official holiday in Barcelona or Spain as a whole, it is still an important date for locals and visitors alike. If you happen to be in Barcelona on this day, make sure to check out some of the La Mercè festivities – they’re sure to be an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, while September 24th may not be a national or regional holiday in Spain or Barcelona specifically, it is still an important date due to the cultural celebrations of La Mercè. So, whether you’re a tourist or a local, make sure to mark this date on your calendar and enjoy the festivities!